India's 'Pink City' Is a Feast for the Senses — Here Are the Best Things to Do in Jaipur

Historic palaces, delicious treats, and gorgeous textiles await in Jaipur.

Steeped in history and tradition, Jaipur, India’s Pink City, is a stunning UNESCO World Heritage site with no shortage of things to do, see, and eat. Explore centuries-old palaces and imposing fortresses where architecture and artistry combine for breathtaking results. Learn how gems are polished and cut at legendary jewelers. Be captivated as skilled artisans print motifs across fabrics using carved blocks. Fall in the love with the immense beauty and bustle of Rajasthan’s capital as well as the wilderness beyond.

With the help of Ashish Balodhi, concierge at the 71-room Oberoi Rajvilas; William Mulford, creative director of the Palladio Group, including Villa Palladio Jaipur, a new nine-room boutique hotel just beyond the city center; and Chinar Farooqui, the founder of Injiri, a Jaipur-based clothing brand that works exclusively with handloom fabrics, we’ve created the ultimate list of things to do in Jaipur.

See the Hawa Mahal by day and night.

Translating to Palace of the Winds, this honeycomb-like red sandstone structure is one of Jaipur’s most famous sites. "By day, it invites you to explore its intricate interiors," says Balodhi. "But by night, the colorful mirrored windows come alive. To truly appreciate this transformation, visit after 9 p.m. when the bustling streets have settled down."

Visit the 19 astronomical instruments at Jantar Mantar.

An open-air observatory dating back to 1728, Jantar Mantar is a testimony to Rajput king (and founder of Jaipur) Sawai Jai Singh’s interest in and knowledge of astronomy. "There’s actually a secret passage that runs just behind Jantar Mantar, but that’s our little secret," says Mulford.

Let your jaw drop at Patrika Gate.

Colorful and intricately painted with beautiful frescoes, this more recently built gateway pays homage to the seven original gates that were used to access the walled city of Jaipur. "It’s fantastic for photographs," says Mulford.

Imagine the opulence of yesteryear at the City Palace.

Spread across a series of courtyards, the City Palace was and still is the royal residence of the last ruling family. Four ornate doorways representing the seasons — Green Gate (spring), Lotus Gate (summer), Peacock Gate (autumn), and Rose Gate (winter) — are among the many highlights here. "I am particularly drawn to the antique textiles, traditional Rajasthani clothing, and craftsmanship showcased within the palace," notes Farooqui.

Join evening prayers at Govind Dev Ji temple.

"The Govind Dev Ji temple is an oasis of spirituality," says Balodhi. "Partake in blessing ceremonies led by priests and experience the evening worship accompanied by hymns."

Sip classic cocktails at striking Bar Palladio.

Within the Narain Niwas Palace hotel, the blue-hued Bar Palladio is a visual treat, an ode to the city’s peacocks perhaps. "Order the Jungle Fever, made with tequila, chili, cilantro and lime," recommends Mulford.

Book a table at The Johri hotel's restaurant and bar.

Elegant interiors and locally sourced ingredients have made this hidden gem a must. "I really appreciate the restaurant’s commitment to using locally sourced and seasonal ingredients," shares Farooqui.

Indulge your sweet tooth at Pandit Kulfi.

Dating back to 1965, Pandit Kulfi is a legendary establishment for its Indian-style ice cream known as kulfi, a dense, creamy, often nut-studded confection that involves simmering milk for hours and hours. "Try their kesar kulfi, infused with saffron, or the rabdi kulfi," suggests Balodhi.

Nurse a nightcap at the Taj Rambagh Palace’s Polo Bar.

Magical by night, with lights festooned along the building’s sculpted archways, the 78-room Taj Rambagh Palace was originally built as a hunting lodge and is a sight to behold.

Visit Brigitte Singh’s hand-block printing center in Sanganer.

"What truly sets this experience apart is the opportunity to engage directly with local artisans, witnessing their skills firsthand and even trying your hand at block printing in their bustling workshop," says Balodhi.

Or, stop in at the Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing.

This museum showcases the art of hand block printing, highlighting the history and techniques with block carving and printing demonstrations throughout the day. There’s also an on-site shop selling tunics, bed linens, paper goods, and more.

Taste traditional sweets at LMB.

Sample all manner of savory snacks and confections at centuries-old Laxmi Misthan Bhandar (LMB), including ghewar, a disc-shaped Rajasthani sweet made from flour, clarified butter, and sugar.

Shop till you drop at Jaipur’s many textile boutiques.

"Rasa stands out as an oasis for those seeking contemporary and sophisticated block-printed soft furnishings," says Balodhi. "Each piece reflects a fusion of tradition and modernity, making it a prime choice for home linens. While Rasa shines brightly, consider other notable options like Soma and Anokhi, too."

Ogle all the wares at the bazars.

Exploring Johri Bazar, Tripolia Bazar, and Chameli Market gives visitors a sense of the daily life as they watch locals who specialize in silver, gems, leather shoes, pottery, and more.

Admire baubles at The Gem Palace and Amrapali.

Dazzling gemstone necklaces, earrings, and bracelets from these legendary houses make the ultimate souvenir. Amrapali’s collection of tribal-inspired and traditional pieces is unrivaled, while The Gem Palace excels at artistic and more contemporary creations, notes Farooqui.

Attend the annual Jaipur Literature Festival.

"It’s one of the world’s largest literary gatherings, featuring renowned authors and discussions on various topics," says Farooqui.

Visit one of Jaipur’s grand forts.

"Perched on a hill, Amber Fort is stunning in the soft morning light," says Farooqui. "Visiting at sunrise allows you witness the fort bathed in gentle rays of the rising sun.” By contrast, consider a visit to Nahargarh Fort at sunset.

Ride in a rickshaw and try local street snacks.

"There are several stalls, in the C-Scheme area along Vaniki Path, that specialize in chilla (sprouted moong dal pancakes, drizzled with tamarind and cilantro chutneys and served with yogurt," says Mulford. "They are super yummy and quite healthy."

Take to the skies in a hot air balloon.

"Ballooning over Jaipur with SkyWaltz Balloon is an awe-inspiring experience," says Balodhi. "Take in the expansive Aravalli hills and majestic Amber Fort during your 60-minute flight."

Spot wildlife on a wilderness safari.

Spread across eight square miles, the Jhalana Leopard Safari Park makes a wonderful half-day adventure. Visitors can keep their eyes peeled for leopards, Indian foxes, hyenas, spotted deer, and migratory birds.

For more Travel & Leisure news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter!

Read the original article on Travel & Leisure.